Proverbs 23:17-18
17 Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the Lord.
18 There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.

This, envying sinners, is an easy trap to fall into. On this side of eternity and the ultimate judgments of God it may seem that sin is unpunished, and righteousness is unrewarded. Our hearts, instead of envying sinners, should be full of compassion for them, for they have nothing to look forward to but death.

Instead of being jealous of the wicked, determine to have an eternal perspective rooted in the fear of the Lord, an active recognition of the greatness and righteousness of God. Not just part of the day, all the day or always be zealous.

Application

How do we measure ourselves – jealous of the wicked or zealous for the fear of the Lord? Ask God to give us a heart of compassion more and more.